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Episode 10: AAPI Insights for Tomorrow

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Gwinnett Studio
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Episode 10: AAPI Insights for Tomorrow
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AAPI Insights for Tomorrow with Bin Liu and Jay Patel

In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, the Gwinnett Chamber Voice of Business Podcast shines a spotlight on the rich contributions and cultural values shaping our business community. This episode features two inspiring Chamber Board Members: Bin Liu, owner of Simple Floors, and Jay Patel, founder of Maison6405 and JMS Family Properties.

Together, they share powerful first- and second-generation Asian-American experiences, exploring how heritage, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit have influenced their approach to business and success here in Gwinnett—the global corner of Metro Atlanta.

The “Gwinnett Chamber Voice of Business” Podcast is presented by Gwinnett Magazine and produced in partnership with Business RadioX. Hosted by President & CEO Nick Masino, this show features engaging fireside chats with prominent business leaders, offering invaluable insights into leadership, small business growth, economic development, and inclusive best practices in business.

 

Episode 9: Inside the Gold Dome: Legislative Recap

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Episode 9: Inside the Gold Dome: Legislative Recap
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Inside the Gold Dome: Legislative Recap with Senator Shawn Still and Paul Oh

Welcome to this episode of Voice of Business, presented by the Gwinnett Chamber! Today, we’re diving into the 2025 Legislative Session with guest host Paul Oh, Vice President of Public Policy and External Affairs at the Gwinnett Chamber, and special guest Senator Shawn Still, who represents Georgia’s 48th Senate District. From his entrepreneurial background in the pool industry to his current role under the Gold Dome, Senator Still shares an engaging perspective on the legislative process and how real relationships—across the aisle and across chambers—shape the future of Georgia.

In this Episode:

  • 0:00 – Intro
  • 0:29 – From Pools to Policy – Senator Still’s Journey
  • 2:10 – Building Trust: Why Relationships Matter
  • 10:00 – Paging at the Capitol – Behind the Scenes
  • 12:42 – Tort Reform and Third Party Litigation Funding
  • 21:54 – Georgia’s Bold Move on Income Tax Reductions
  • 33:21 – SR48 – Recognizing the Gwinnett Chamber’s Impact
  • 36:23 – Finding Your Bill – Using legis.ga.gov
  • 37:46 – Looking Ahead: 2026 Is an Election Year

Resources & Links

Senator Shawn Still – Georgia Senate District 48
Paul Oh – LinkedIn
Gwinnett Chamber Public Policy
Georgia General Assembly

The “Gwinnett Chamber Voice of Business” Podcast is presented by Gwinnett Magazine and produced in partnership with Business RadioX. Hosted by President & CEO Nick Masino, this show features engaging fireside chats with prominent business leaders, offering invaluable insights into leadership, small business growth, economic development, and inclusive best practices in business.

Episode 8: The Global Business Playbook in the #1 State for Business

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Episode 8: The Global Business Playbook in the #1 State for Business
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The Global Business Playbook in the #1 State for Business with Kristi Brigman and Trevor Williams

Welcome to today’s episode of Voice of Business, presented by Gwinnett Magazine! We’re thrilled to be joined by Kristi Brigman, Chief Economic Development Officer at the Metro Atlanta Chamber, and Trevor Williams, Managing Editor at Global Atlanta, for an insightful conversation on what makes Georgia the #1 state for business for the 11th year in a row. Our guests break down the impact of foreign direct investment, why exports matter for businesses of all sizes, and how initiatives like the Metro Export Challenge are helping small businesses expand internationally. Plus, we explore how companies can leverage consulates, embassies, and Atlanta’s diverse business ecosystem to compete on a global scale—all without leaving Metro Atlanta. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business leader, or just curious about the future of global business in our region, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

In this Episode:

  • Guest Introduction 00:00
  • The Georgia Partnership Approach 01:35
  • FDI: Foreign Direct Investment 08:46
  • Existing Industries Leading Growth 16:21
  • Export Strategy – Why & How? 20:46
  • Utilizing Consulates & Embassies 30:30
  • Global Business Without Leaving Atlanta 36:35
  • Competitive Advantage of Diversity in Gwinnett 41:55
  • A Look to the Future 43:20

Resources & Links:

 

The “Gwinnett Chamber Voice of Business” Podcast is presented by Gwinnett Magazine and produced in partnership with Business RadioX. Hosted by President & CEO Nick Masino, this show features engaging fireside chats with prominent business leaders, offering invaluable insights into leadership, small business growth, economic development, and inclusive best practices in business.

Episode 7: Celebrating Black Business Leaders: Leadership, Legacy & Impact with Tami Wilder and Lanier Levett

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Gwinnett Studio
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Episode 7: Celebrating Black Business Leaders: Leadership, Legacy & Impact with Tami Wilder and Lanier Levett
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Celebrating Black Business Leaders: Leadership, Legacy & Impact with Tami Wilder and Lanier Levett

Welcome to today’s episode of The Voice of Business, presented by Gwinnett Magazine! We’re thrilled to be joined by Tami Wilder, Co-CEO at Positive Impact International, and Lanier Levett, 2024 Board Chair and 3rd Generation Funeral Home Owner at Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory. Together, we explore the pivotal moments that shape leadership, the challenges businesses must prepare for, and the role of resilience in driving success. As we honor Black History Month, our guests offer personal reflections on its significance, highlight the role of allies in fostering inclusive business environments, and discuss how representation fuels stronger, more connected communities. From leadership growth to embracing diversity at every level, this conversation is filled with powerful insights—plus, we’ll dive into The Six Triple Eight, Tyler Perry’s latest film!
In this Episode:
  • Intro 00:00
  • Pivotal Moments that Shape You as a Leader 02:50
  • Business Challenges to Prepare for 09:55
  • What does Black History Month Mean to Me? 16:08
  • The Six Triple Eight Review 25:36
  • The Importance of Allies in Business 28:50
  • Being a Reflection of our Community 39:27
  • Advice to the Younger Generation 48:49

Resources & Links:

The Positive Impact – Website

Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory – Website

The Gwinnett Chamber’s “Voice of Business” Podcast is presented by Gwinnett Magazine and produced in partnership with Business RadioX. Hosted by President & CEO Nick Masino, this show features engaging fireside chats with prominent business leaders, offering invaluable insights into leadership, small business growth, economic development, and inclusive best practices in business.

Episode 6: Business Trends to Look For in 2025

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Episode 6: Business Trends to Look For in 2025
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Workplace Evolution in 2025 with Fred Dawkins and Jeff Spence: Trends in Culture, AI Innovation, Legal Shifts, and More

Welcome to today’s episode of Voice of Business, presented by Gwinnett Magazine. We’re thrilled to be joined by Fred Dawkins, Owner at Frederick C. Dawkins, Esq., P.C., and Jeff Spence, Founder and CEO at WithFuel, for an in-depth discussion on the dynamic shifts shaping the workplace in 2025. Together, we’ll explore the evolution of workplace culture, the growing complexity of management, and the transformative impact of AI innovation. This episode also covers timely legal and business topics such as recent rulings on salary thresholds and non-compete agreements, the rising use of fractional employees, and strategies for leveraging remote work to solve complex challenges. Whether you’re leading a startup, managing a team, or running a large organization, this episode is filled with actionable insights to help you thrive in the year ahead.

In this Episode:

  1. Intro 00:00
  2. Trends in Workplace Culture in 2025 03:35
  3. Calling Employees Back to the Office 03:40
  4. There Should be Complexity to your Management 08:36
  5. Knowing How to Manage People 13:00
  6. Utilizing Fractional Employees as a Small Business 19:14
  7. How Will AI Impact the Workplace? 21:15
  8. Salary Threshold Increase Struck Down in Texas 29:55
  9. Non-Compete Ban Blocked Nationwide 31:24
  10. Immigration Enforcement in the Workplace Ramped Up 39:50
  11. Using Remote Opportunities and AI to Solve Problems 43:40

Resources & Links:

Jeff Spence – LinkedIn

Unconstrained: Fueling Opportunities & Unsucking Your Business by Jeff Spence

Fred Dawkins – LinkedIn

Frederick C. Dawkins, Esq. – Website

The Gwinnett Chamber’s “Voice of Business” Podcast is presented by Gwinnett Magazine and produced in partnership with Business RadioX. Hosted by President & CEO Nick Masino, this show features engaging fireside chats with prominent business leaders, offering invaluable insights into leadership, small business growth, economic development, and inclusive best practices in business.

 

Episode 5: New Year, New Leadership

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Episode 5: New Year, New Leadership
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New Year, New Leadership with Dr. Darice Irby and Rick Packer: Common Leadership Lessons, Navigating Change Management, Combating Burnout, and More

Welcome to today’s episode of “The Voice of Business” presented by Gwinnett Magazine, where we’re thrilled to have Dr. Darice Irby, Owner of Thriving Partners LLC, and Rick Packer, Principal Consultant at The Table Group, joining us for an inspiring conversation led by Nick Masino, President and CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber. Together, they’ll dive into the art of authentic leadership, strategies for preventing burnout, the transformative impact of AI innovation, and how to choose the right mentor to guide your leadership journey. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a new leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights to inspire your growth in the new year.

In this Episode:

  • Intro 00:00
  • Common Leadership Lessons in 2024 03:18
  • Navigating Change Management 09:20
  • How Leaders can Prioritize their Growth & Development 10:50
  • Advice on Choosing a Mentor 14:30
  • Strategies to Combat Burnout 24:32
  • Advice for New Leaders 34:08

Resources & Links:

Dr. Darice Irby – LinkedIn

Thriving Partners LLC Website

Rick Packer – LinkedIn

The Table Group Website

The Gwinnett Chamber’s “Voice of Business” Podcast is presented by Gwinnett Magazine and produced in partnership with Business RadioX. Hosted by President & CEO Nick Masino, this show features engaging fireside chats with prominent business leaders, offering invaluable insights into leadership, small business growth, economic development, and inclusive best practices in business.

Episode 4: Small Business, Big Goals

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Episode 4: Small Business, Big Goals
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Building Big Goals with Joy Mitchell and Charbel Aoun: From Gwinnett Roots to Entrepreneurial Impact and Community Collaboration

Welcome to today’s episode of “The Voice of Business”, where we’re thrilled to have Joy Mitchell, CEO/Owner of Office Creations, and Charbel Aoun, Founding Executive Director of the Georgia First Generation Foundation, sharing their journeys and insights in a conversation led by Deirdra Cox, Executive Director of the Gwinnett Chamber Foundation.

Both proud Gwinnettians, Joy and Charbel dive into the highs and challenges of starting a business, the essential differences between sponsorship and mentorship, and how for-profit and non-profit organizations can work together to make a real impact. Plus, we’ll talk about the power of a BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal), find inspiration in Kung Fu Panda quotes, and hear what’s kept these leaders motivated as they turn their visions into reality. Tune in for an inspiring mix of grit, goals, and Gwinnett pride!

In this Episode:

  • Intro 00:00
  • What prompted Charbel to start his non-profit? 02:02
  • The Leap of Faith 05:45
  • Gotta Have A B.H.A.G. (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) 05:45
  • Breaking Barriers for Women in Business 07:58
  • Early Challenges in Starting a Business 11:27
  • Strategies for Business Growth & Partnerships 15:49
  • How to create an Impact as a for-profit business? 20:20
  • Advice for Others Starting their own Business 23:08
  • What does the future hold for business? 26:07
  • How can for-profits & non-profits partner together in 2025? 30:00

Resources & Links:

Joy Mitchell – LinkedIn

Office Creations Website

Re:Creations Website

Charbel Aoun – LinkedIn

Georgia First Gen Foundation Website

The “Gwinnett Chamber Voice of Business” Podcast is presented by Gwinnett Magazine and produced in partnership with Business RadioX. Hosted by President & CEO Nick Masino, this show features engaging fireside chats with prominent business leaders, offering invaluable insights into leadership, small business growth, economic development, and inclusive best practices in business.

Episode 3: Healthy Culture, Happy Teams

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Gwinnett Studio
Gwinnett Studio
Episode 3: Healthy Culture, Happy Teams
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Exploring Organizational Culture with Evie Suarez: From First-Gen Professionalism to Leadership’s Role in Shaping Workplace Success.

This month, we dove deep into the heart of workplace dynamics with Evie Suarez, Founder of WorkWise Guide and a first-generation professional blazing trails in organizational culture. Tune in to explore what it means to be a first-gen pro, the essential ingredients of the “organizational soup” recipe, and how culture is shaped by both leadership and employees. Evie shares actionable insights on recognizing when culture is at risk, the top three things employees desire most, and how leaders can actively impact and nurture a thriving workplace culture.

In this Episode:

  • Intro 00:00
  • What’s it like being a 1st Generation Professional? 02:00
  • What even is organizational culture? 03:40
  • The “organizational soup” recipe! 05:40
  • Leadership’s role in developing culture 07:15
  • Employee’s role in developing culture 11:15
  • Taking action when culture is at risk 14:19
  • Top 3 employee wants for workplace culture 21:35
  • How to impact your organization’s culture as a leader? 29:39

Resources & Links:

Evie Suarez – LinkedIn
WorkWise Guide
GYP Journey Leadership Institute
Evie’s Podcast/ Leadership Resource Recommendation – Simon Sinek

The “Gwinnett Chamber Voice of Business” Podcast is presented by Gwinnett Magazine and produced in partnership with Business RadioX. Hosted by President & CEO Nick Masino, this show features engaging fireside chats with prominent business leaders, offering invaluable insights into leadership, small business growth, economic development, and inclusive best practices in business.

Episode 2: Hispanic Heritage Héroes in Business

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Gwinnett Studio
Gwinnett Studio
Episode 2: Hispanic Heritage Héroes in Business
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Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with inspiring stories of entrepreneurship, resilience, and the power of community.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we sat down with Alejandra Cardenas, Financial Director at Supermercados Talpa, and Albert Sorto, Vice President of Business Development and
Strategic Alliances at Rudhil Companies, to hear about the role their heritage has played in their careers. Tune in to hear these héroes in business share about their biggest role models, how
they’ve overcome barriers and challenges in their careers, and the importance of building relationships (especially through the breaking of bread).

In this Episode:

  • From dairy farmers to owning 11 stores
  • What it’s like to be the children of immigrant entrepreneurs
  • Even héroes have role models
  • Building relationships through breaking bread
  • Utilizing available resources & how to find them
  • Taking it beyond Hispanic Heritage Month

Resources & Links:

Alejandra Cardenas – LinkedIn
Albert Sorto – LinkedIn

The Gwinnett Chamber’s “Voice of Business” Podcast is presented by Gwinnett Magazine and produced in partnership with Business RadioX. Hosted by President & CEO Nick Masino, this show features engaging fireside chats with prominent business leaders, offering invaluable insights into leadership, small business growth, economic development, and inclusive best practices in business.

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